Hugonnay, Vilma (1847–1922)

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Hugonnay, Vilma (1847–1922)

Hungarian physician. Name variations: Vilma Hugonnai; Vilma Hugonnai-Wartha or Hugonnay-Wartha; Vilma Wartha. Born 1847 in the Castle Nagytétény in Budapest, Hungary; died 1922; dau. of Count Hugonnay; m. György Szillassy, 1865; m. Vince Wartha (1844–1914, Hungarian chemist).

The 1st qualified woman doctor in Hungary, began studying medicine in Zurich after death of her 6-year-old child; published papers on tracheotomy in diphtheria and burn treatment; permitted only midwife certificate; after degree was finally recognized by Ministry of Culture (1897), began vigorous practice; contributed important research to Hungarian medicine and helped improve status of women in medicine.